Local Tiki Taco Joins Chipotle on National Fast-Casual Power List

Tiki Taco just landed on one of the restaurant industry’s biggest national lists. Quite an accomplishment considering there are only five brick and mortar locations and all within the KC metro.

The fast-casual taco chain was named No. 72 on Fast Casual’s 2026 Top 100 Movers and Shakers, an annual ranking that highlights restaurant brands changing the future of fast casual dining. The list includes major national chains like Chipotle and Dave’s Hot Chicken, making Tiki Taco’s placement especially exciting.

Tiki Taco company leadership traveled to Chicago to accept the award at the 11th annual Fast Casual Top 100 Gala. “Being named a Mover & Shaker at this stage of our growth is a testament to what our team has built—not just a restaurant, but a brand that resonates with its community,” CEO Eric Knott said in a release.

The Kansas City-based Tiki Taco is known for its made-from scratch tacos and burritos. Along with its five restaurants (including locations in Olathe and Shawnee), the company also operates an events food truck.

Over the past year, Tiki Taco has boomed with success. They’ve partnered with University of Kansas Athletics to serve fans inside Allen Fieldhouse and David Booth Kansas Memorial stadium, and also established relationships with local companies like Garmin, Honeywell and Children’s Mercy Hospital.

The company says new locations are already planned for Liberty, the Crossroads, south Overland Park, Lawrence and Metro North in 2026.

“We’ve built our brand around the neighborhoods we serve,” Director of Operations Jason Kinslow said. “This recognition tells us that what we’re doing resonates—not just locally, but on a national stage.”

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